Google has introduced Pause Point, a new Android feature designed to reduce doomscrolling.
The feature aims to help users stop endless phone scrolling and build a healthier relationship with their devices.
It forms part of Google’s wider Digital Wellbeing efforts.
A 10-second pause before distracting apps
Pause Point works by making users wait 10 seconds before opening selected distracting apps.
This differs from traditional app timers. Those usually limit total usage time.
Pause Point instead creates a short moment of friction before the user enters the app.
That pause gives users time to think. They can ask themselves if they really want to open the app, or if they should do something else.
Built for mindful phone use
The idea behind Pause Point is simple. A small delay can help users become more aware of their actions.
This may help people avoid long, unnecessary scrolling sessions, especially on social media apps.
Users can choose which apps should use Pause Point. This allows each person to customize the feature based on their habits.
The feature will roll out to supported Android devices.
A 10-second pause sounds tiny until it stops your thumb from opening the same app for the 50th time. Pause Point may not save everyone from doomscrolling, but it might at least make the habit awkward enough to notice.
 Origin: Google
